Smashing Pumpkins & Yungblud’s New Collaboration “Zombie”

The Smashing Pumpkins are helping Yungblud tap deeper into his rock roots with a new remake of his relationship‑themed track “Zombie.” Originally featured on his 2025 album IDOLS, the reimagined version arrived on January 2, marking one of the first major rock releases of 2026.

Billy Corgan contributes lead guitar, takes over lead vocals on the second verse, and provides backing vocals throughout the track. A black‑and‑white music video—featuring the pair performing in a snowy graveyard—debuted on YouTube alongside a behind‑the‑scenes documentary. The “Zombie” video racked up 2.4 million views in its first two days.

Yungblud expressed his excitement about collaborating with another legendary rock act. After recording with Aerosmith last year, teaming up with the Pumpkins felt like the next natural step. In the making‑of video, he reflected on transforming the previously softer “Zombie” into something more powerful.

“It doesn’t feel like a throwback, it feels really fresh. It’s two generations colliding together,” he said. “I learned so much about guitar tone—how much time he’d spend on it. Billy spent three hours practicing through different tones until we found the right thing. You get that feeling like [The Smashing Pumpkins song] ‘Mayonaise’—it just hits, but it sounds a little thicker with the production of now. That time was the age of imperfection, and I think that’s coming back.”

Corgan echoed the admiration, praising Yungblud’s passion and versatility. “Whatever’s happening here is very unique and very special. Dom’s a true rock fan. For a singer to craft pop and then move to rock ’n’ roll, it’s a very short list.”